The Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) in Ahmedabad has introduced a new initiative that lowers the minimum number of blood donors required for a camp from 25 to just 11. This change will be implemented on Sunday, which is observed as World Blood Donor Day.
Encouraging Blood Donation with Lower Threshold
Dr Vishwas Amin, director of the Red Cross blood bank, explained that previously, a blood donation camp required at least 25 participants. However, to encourage more people to donate, the organization is now accepting even 11 units. "No donation is small, and to underline this, we are felicitating blood donors who have donated more than 5, 10, 25, 50, or 75 times," he said.
Remembering the AI 171 Airplane Crash Tragedy
Dr Amin linked the initiative to the AI 171 airplane crash tragedy that occurred a year ago, noting that a record 800 units were donated on that day as nearly 1,100 people approached the facility. "We are sending these Good Samaritans a message on Sunday, thanking them for their service and encouraging them for regular blood donations," he added.
Prathama Blood Bank Honors Women Donors
At Prathama Blood Bank, World Blood Donor Day will be marked by felicitating 36 women who have donated blood more than five times. Dr Ripal Shah, director of Prathama Blood Bank, said, "We are honouring donors who have contributed between five and 35 times. Their generosity, compassion, and dedication serve as an inspiration to society and encourage more women to participate in this noble cause."
